MCAD said Ms. Peirce claimed Mr. Fostin's remarks "created a hostile work environment because of a racial comment" he made.

The state commission said it was dismissing her complaint because it doesn't fall under the statutes it enforces because Ms. Peirce is not a town employee.

In its report, a copy of which was obtained by The Advocate, MCAD wrote; "Therefore, although the Commission certainly does not condone the language allegedly used by Respondent Fostin, the complaint must be dismissed for lack of jurisdiction."

Ms. Peirce resigned from the Conservation Commission Wednesday, citing other reasons. On Thursday, she said she was unaware MCAD had dismissed her complaint.

"I just couldn't take it anymore," she said. "Volunteering should bring joy, not threats."

Ms. Peirce said she'd had an upsetting incident with Chairman Joseph Taylor Monday followed by a disturbing phone call from Selectman Geoffrey Haworth on Tuesday.

Mr. Taylor said the timing of her resignation seemed to be linked to the MCAD decision, but Ms. Peirce said Thursday, "I haven't heard anything like that except that it was assigned to a new person."

She added, "That wasn't it at all," as far as the reason for her resignation.

Ms. Peirce said Mr. Taylor complained when she abstained Monday from voting on an enforcement order involving a seawall.

Mr. Taylor faulted her for refusing to enforce the seawall regulation because she felt it wasn't being applied to residents uniformly.

In her letter of resignation, Ms. Peirce said, "It is with great sadness that I submit my resignation ... I have served on this board for four-plus years and I have never been questioned on any of my votes or decisions. Now, however, my vote on an enforcement has been scrutinized by our Chair leading me to receive a rather terse phone call last night from Selectman Haworth which lasted over an hour."

She added, "I wish only the best for my fellow commissioners and I do not wish to be a distraction upon the important work we are charged to undertake in the protection of our natural resources."

Mr. Taylor said, "I'm sure Cora knows I'm upset." But he said at the same time, he's sorry to see her go because she's articulate and intelligent.

"She's an asset to the commission," he said, "but her resignation, she's brought it upon herself."

Mr. Haworth said he didn't realize Ms. Peirce was upset after her conversation with him Tuesday. He said he'd heard from Mr. Taylor about their clash and was trying to function as an intermediary. Mr. Haworth said he was just trying to help the commission members work together more comfortably.

The commission has had problems getting a quorum even without this resignation. Mr. Haworth said the town has received a letter of interest about the sudden opening. Mr. Taylor said he has reached out to someone about serving.

Filling empty seats has been complicated by the need for people with expertise in areas like wetlands protection.